This contract is a coup for Bill Cords and Father Wild. Crean is the quintessential program builder and a charismatic ambassador for MU. During the last eight years, the University responded in-kind with dramatically improved facilities, resources and expertise to match. With top-notch facilities, an expanded athletic department staff, a much-improved athletic scholarship fund engine, burgeoning ticket sales, and now the Crean extension - - MU's commitment is clear.

The new deal likely ensures that Crean's tenure at MU will outlast that of current AD Bill Cords, who has been at the university for roughly 20 years. Also, its possible that Crean will also serve under another university president in the years to come. In each case the message is clear - - big-time basketball is a critical part of the overall, long-term university strategy.

A lengthy, lucrative deal like this signals that the commitment to the basketball program transcends the current administration. This is a good thing considering MU's lack of commitment during the mid-1980s, one that derailed the program for years to come.

Next up -- the CBE Classic, where the field now is set for November. MU is one of four programs hosting a first-round game in this event, and will open on November 13 against Idaho State at the Bradley Center. Maine and Detroit will also play at the BC that same night, with the winner of this mini-bracket advancing to the CBE semifinals in Kansas City on November 20. The winner of this bracket would likely face Texas Tech in Kansas City, and perhaps the Duke/Stanford winner in the finals on November 21. Interestingly, this event will also play a consolation game on that same date.